History of Mising | Mising Autonomous Council

Origin

The Mising people trace their origins back to the hills of Arunachal Pradesh, where they were originally a tribal community inhabiting the Abor and Mishimi hills. Prior to the arrival of the Ahom people, they migrated from the hills to the plains of Assam, settling in the riverside areas along the Brahmaputra and the Subansiri rivers.

Ethnically, the Mising people belong to the Tibeto-Burman family within the broader Mongolian group. This cultural heritage and linguistic affiliation provide them with a distinct identity within the diverse tapestry of the region. Through their rich history and migration journey, the Mising community has contributed significantly to the cultural mosaic of Assam, preserving their traditions and customs while adapting to the changing landscape of their new homeland.

Life & Culture

The life and culture of the Mising people are deeply intertwined with agriculture and fishing, shaping their traditions and way of life. Originally practicing the 'Jhum' or slash-and-burn method of agriculture in their hill habitats, the Mising people transitioned to settled cultivation upon migrating to the plains of Assam. Today, they have become proficient in wet paddy cultivation, showcasing their adaptability and agricultural acumen.

At the heart of Mising culture lies the celebration of the 'Ali-Aye-Ligang' festival, which holds great significance in their agricultural calendar. The name of the festival symbolizes its essence: 'Ali' refers to edible roots, 'Aye' signifies seeds, and 'Ligang' denotes the sowing festival. Celebrated on the first Wednesday of every Falgun month, this festival marks the commencement of the cultivation season for the Mising community. It serves as a joyous occasion for community bonding, cultural performances, traditional rituals, and prayers for a bountiful harvest.

Religion

The religious beliefs of the Mising people revolve around the cult of 'Do-nyi-Polo,' which entails the worship of the Sun and Moon. Central to their spirituality is the recognition of the Sun and Moon as the primary sources of energy for life. The Mising community venerates these celestial bodies, attributing to them the immense significance in sustaining the natural order and providing vital nourishment to the earth and its inhabitants.

Through rituals, prayers, and ceremonies, the Mising people express their reverence and gratitude towards the Sun and Moon, seeking their blessings for prosperity, fertility, and well-being. The cult of 'Do-nyi-Polo' not only reflects the deep-rooted connection between the Mising people and the natural world but also serves as a guiding principle in their daily lives, emphasizing harmony with nature and the universe.

Population and Habitation

The Mising population in Assam is estimated to be around 700,000 (7 lacs), while in Arunachal Pradesh, it is approximately 30,000. In Assam, the Mising people predominantly inhabit various districts, including Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Sonitpur, Golaghat, Jorhat, Sibsagar, Dibrugarh, and Tinsukia. Their settlements are primarily located along the banks of rivers, which have historically served as important lifelines for transportation, agriculture, and livelihood activities.

The distribution of Mising habitation across these districts reflects their historical migration patterns and the geographical features of the region. Rivers not only provide fertile land for agriculture but also support fishing activities, which are integral to the traditional way of life for the Mising people. Additionally, proximity to rivers facilitates transportation and trade, contributing to the economic and social dynamics of Mising communities in Assam.